Techno-economic assessments of electrolyzers for hydrogen production

Efenwengbe Nicholas Aminaho, Ndukaegho Sabastine Aminaho and Faith Aminaho

Applied Energy, 2025, vol. 399, issue C, No S0306261925012450

Abstract: This review provides a comprehensive techno-economic assessment of four leading electrolyzer technologies such as the Alkaline Water Electrolyzers (AWE), Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cells (SOEC), and Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) systems for green hydrogen production. Drawing on more than 40 peer-reviewed studies and real-world deployment scenarios, the analysis compares performance indicators such as levelised cost of hydrogen (LCOH), capital expenditure (CAPEX), operating expenditure (OPEX), efficiency, stack durability, and water treatment requirements. AWE is identified as the most cost-effective option for baseload power contexts, while PEM offers superior dynamic response and gas purity at a higher cost. SOECs, despite their high theoretical efficiency, remain limited by thermal cycling and material degradation. AEMs, though less mature, hold promise for low-cost, decentralized hydrogen production. Cost of electricity is more than 64 % of LCOH in all technologies, so it is important to match electrolyzers with stable or hybrid renewable energy resources such as geothermal, wind-solar, or Concentrated Solar Power (CSP). Optimisation methods such as genetic algorithms and GIS-based siting also enhance system performance and economic value. The report also considers regional and policy dimensions of deployment, underlining the need for site-specific solutions in the context of local energy portfolios, water supply, and infrastructure readiness. Recommendations are provided for advancing membrane longevity, integrating smart control systems, and optimizing techno-economic assessment models. This study is a policy decision-making tool for policymakers, investors, and researchers who are interested in accelerating the global scale-up of green hydrogen using context-relevant and economically viable electrolyzer technologies.

Keywords: Hydrogen; Electrolyzer; Techno-economic assessment; Levelised cost of hydrogen; Capital expenditure; Operating expenditure (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.126515

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